First-Ever National Study on Economic Impact of Wine & Grapes
January 17, 2007
Today, Congressmen Mike Thompson (D-CA) and George Radanovich (R-CA), co-chairs of the Congressional Wine Caucus, joined the Wine Institute, the National Grape and Wine Initiative, WineAmerica and the Winegrape Growers of America to release an unprecedented study on the impact of wine, grapes and grape products on the American economy.
“This landmark study confirms what we have known intuitively for a long time,” said Congressman Mike Thompson. “Grapes, wine, and other grape products are truly an economic catalyst with tremendous growth potential in all 50 states. Policymakers can maximize these economic benefits by supporting legislation that enhances the wine and grape-product industry. Our support will ensure that this all-American industry continues to produce superior products and provide a strong contribution to our economy.”
The study, produced by MKF Research LLC, found that U.S. wine, grape and grape-product industries contribute more than $162 billion annually to the American economy. The report also highlights the surging employment and tourism numbers, both of which are catalyzed by the growing U.S. grape and wine markets.
“The numbers are really impressive, but there are many other benefits from grapes that should be considered,” said Congressman Radanovich. “By maintaining the vineyards in the San Joaquin Valley and those throughout the nation, we help preserve our agricultural lands. Further, vineyards and wineries revitalize and support local economies in rural communities, account for over 1 million direct and indirect jobs and contribute over $129 million to charitable causes. As an added benefit, it is important to mention that grapes, grape juice and wine contain antioxidants, which improve health.”
“This report demonstrates what an important role the 1st Congressional District of California plays in the national economy,” said Thompson. “It also shows how all 50 states can learn from our region's efforts to protect and improve the wine industry. We are at the forefront of efforts to protect our agricultural lands and watersheds. We also produce top-notch research on issues that have a large impact on the wine and grape industries, such as disease control and sustainable farming practices.”
The Congressional Wine Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral coalition of U.S. Representatives and Senators with an interest in the grape and wine industries. The Caucus serves to highlight the many benefits of these strong industries.
“This landmark study confirms what we have known intuitively for a long time,” said Congressman Mike Thompson. “Grapes, wine, and other grape products are truly an economic catalyst with tremendous growth potential in all 50 states. Policymakers can maximize these economic benefits by supporting legislation that enhances the wine and grape-product industry. Our support will ensure that this all-American industry continues to produce superior products and provide a strong contribution to our economy.”
The study, produced by MKF Research LLC, found that U.S. wine, grape and grape-product industries contribute more than $162 billion annually to the American economy. The report also highlights the surging employment and tourism numbers, both of which are catalyzed by the growing U.S. grape and wine markets.
“The numbers are really impressive, but there are many other benefits from grapes that should be considered,” said Congressman Radanovich. “By maintaining the vineyards in the San Joaquin Valley and those throughout the nation, we help preserve our agricultural lands. Further, vineyards and wineries revitalize and support local economies in rural communities, account for over 1 million direct and indirect jobs and contribute over $129 million to charitable causes. As an added benefit, it is important to mention that grapes, grape juice and wine contain antioxidants, which improve health.”
“This report demonstrates what an important role the 1st Congressional District of California plays in the national economy,” said Thompson. “It also shows how all 50 states can learn from our region's efforts to protect and improve the wine industry. We are at the forefront of efforts to protect our agricultural lands and watersheds. We also produce top-notch research on issues that have a large impact on the wine and grape industries, such as disease control and sustainable farming practices.”
The Congressional Wine Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral coalition of U.S. Representatives and Senators with an interest in the grape and wine industries. The Caucus serves to highlight the many benefits of these strong industries.
Issues:Wine & Agriculture